Celebrating Innovation and Community: Hispanic Heritage Month Events in Tech
- Joey Cruz
- Aug 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 4
As we kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite you to join in honoring the remarkable contributions of Hispanic and Latinx innovators throughout history and in the tech industry today. This month is not just about recognition; it's an opportunity for all of us to celebrate our shared aspirations and community spirit. For events happening near you, check out SOMOS.tech/hhm.
Communities to Know and Grow With
Breaking into tech (or leveling up) is much easier when you have a crew cheering you on. Here are some vibrant communities for Latinos, Latinas, Latinx, and allies to plug into:
Latinas in Tech
A powerhouse nonprofit with chapters across the U.S. and beyond.
Offers mentorship, job boards, and conferences that center Latinas breaking barriers in tech.
Website: latinasintech.org
Techqueria
Think of it like a big family potluck—you bring your skills, and everyone shares opportunities, stories, and support.
Their Slack and events are buzzing with recruiters, peers, and mentors.
Website: techqueria.org
SOMOS.tech (¡that’s us!)
Our own movement to go #BeyondTheCloud by uplifting nuestra comunidad with events, resources, and career pathways.
Special shoutout: join our Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations at SOMOS.tech/hhm.
Latinx in AI (LXAI)
Focused on ensuring our voices are part of the AI revolution.
Hosts research workshops, networking, and mentorship opportunities at top conferences like NeurIPS and ICML.
Website: lxai.org
AfroTech / Blavity (allyship matters!)
While not exclusively Latinx, their conferences and networks emphasize intersectional empowerment in tech.
A great space for allies and cross-community collaboration.
Website: afrotech.com
Why it matters: Community isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s the bridge between doubt and success. Like learning abuela’s recipe, you don’t do it alone—you watch, share, and practice together. These groups offer that same mix of guidance, opportunity, and cariño.
The Impact of Hispanic and Latinx Innovators
In the realm of technology, the contributions of Hispanic and Latinx individuals weave a rich narrative of innovation and cultural impact. Their work has transformed various tech sectors, from software development to cybersecurity. This month, we not only celebrate their past achievements but also inspire the next generation to embrace their heritage as they step into the tech world.
Certificate of the Month: Google Cloud Certified – Cloud Digital Leader
Are you ready to boost your career in tech? The Google Cloud Certified – Cloud Digital Leader certification is a fantastic first step. This credential introduces the essentials of cloud computing without diving too deep into code, making it perfect for beginners and career changers.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Cloud fundamentals: Core concepts like cloud storage, big data, and cloud security—skills every modern workplace needs. (Google Cloud training overview)
Real-world applications: How businesses across industries use cloud tech to innovate and solve problems.
Decision-making confidence: You’ll learn to speak the “language of the cloud,” so you can contribute meaningfully in strategy meetings—even if you’re not writing code.
And the payoff? Reports show that nearly 90% of cloud-certified professionals see career advancement within six months of getting certified. That might mean a promotion, a new role, or simply walking into interviews with more confianza.
How to get started:
Explore the free Cloud Digital Leader Learning Path with on-demand modules.
Test your knowledge with practice exams on SkillBoosts (Google’s learning platform).
Register for the certification exam through the Google Cloud Certification page when you’re ready.
Sí se puede—you don’t need years of coding experience to prove your value in the cloud era. This cert is like abuela’s starter recipe: learn the basics first, then add your own sazón as you grow.
Up-and-Coming Role: AI Ethics & Privacy Specialist
As technology races ahead, the role of an AI Ethics & Privacy Specialist emerges as crucial. This position combines an understanding of cultural values with technical skills to protect communities. As artificial intelligence grows ever more pervasive, ethical guidance ensures our advancements remain inclusive.
If you’re exploring this role, focus on these key areas:
Study privacy laws and bias mitigation techniques: Knowledge of laws like the GDPR can position you as an advocate for ethical AI practices, ensuring data is handled responsibly. According to recent surveys, 66% of consumers are concerned about how their data is used, emphasizing the need for professionals in this domain.
Familiarize yourself with ethical frameworks: Understanding frameworks such as the AI Ethics Guidelines from the European Commission can help you develop policies that guide responsible AI development. The ability to translate these guidelines into actionable tech policies is essential.
Gain experience through volunteering or internships: Look for volunteer opportunities with organizations focused on ethical tech. Whether it’s a non-profit fighting for privacy rights or a startup prioritizing ethical AI, real-world experience is invaluable.
Embracing this role allows you to blend technology with social responsibility, making a substantial impact in both tech and your community.
Celebrate and Connect
Join our SOMOS.tech/hhm events to connect with mentors, share your experiences, and celebrate our rich heritage. Embrace your cultural roots as you journey through tech. Remember, your background is a unique asset that can guide and enhance your career.
As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we reinforce that our diverse backgrounds are crucial to the tech industry. By celebrating our shared heritage, we lay the groundwork for future innovators who will continue shaping the technological landscape.
Honoring Our Legacy
This month, we reflect on the vital contributions made by Hispanic and Latinx individuals in technology and beyond. Their pioneering efforts and cultural insights not only drive innovation but also promote inclusivity in the tech community.
As we celebrate, let’s commit to building a supportive environment for one another. Whether you’re starting your tech journey or you’re a seasoned pro, your heritage is a source of immense strength.
Together, we can work towards a more inclusive and innovative future in technology. Let’s honor our legacy and inspire each other as we navigate the exciting world of tech!
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